Baseball cards have been collected by fans for over a century and bring back memories of favorite players from days gone by. While many cards in collections hold sentimental value, some are actually quite valuable depending on their condition and the player featured. Here are some baseball cards collectors should take a closer look at that could add significant value to their collection.

1909 T206 Honus Wagner – The crown jewel of all baseball cards is the ultra-rare 1909 T206 Honus Wagner. Produced by the American Tobacco Company, it is believed only 50-200 of these were printed making it one of the most sought after cards ever. In pristine condition, it can fetch over $2 million at auction. Even well-worn examples in poor condition have sold for over $100,000. The rarity and mystique around Wagner, considered one of the best shortstops ever, is why this card commands the highest price in the hobby.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card is the pinnacle card for the famed New York Yankee centerfielder. While not quite as scarce as the Wagner, it is still extremely difficult to find in high grade. Mantle went on to have a Hall of Fame career and is considered one of the greatest switch hitters in MLB history. Graded mint condition examples have sold for over $400,000 in recent years. Even moderately played copies still sell for five figures.

1933 Goudey Babe Ruth – Produced during the height of Babe Ruth’s playing career by Goudey Gum Company, the 1933 card is one of the most iconic images of the famed slugger. High grade copies are exceptionally rare with only a handful known to exist. In 2013, a PSA Gem Mint 10 copy sold for a record $637,500 at auction. While still pricey, lower graded versions can be had for $30,000-$50,000 depending on condition. The Ruth remains a highly coveted card for his enduring popularity.

1974 Topps Nolan Ryan – Nolan Ryan’s rookie card from his first Topps issue in 1974 is one of the most significant pitching cards ever printed. Ryan went on to break numerous strikeout records and pitch until he was 46 years old. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $25,000 in recent years with lower graded copies still bringing $3,000-$5,000. His prolific career and rarity as a true first-year card make this a must-have for Ryan collectors.

1969 Topps Willie Mays – Produced during the twilight of Willie Mays’ career, the 1969 Topps card remains one of the most visually appealing images of “The Say Hey Kid.” Highly graded versions command over $15,000 but well-centered copies in average condition still sell for $2,000-$3,000. Mays was already a living legend at this point with over 600 home runs and is considered one of the greatest all-around players ever. His popularity endures to this day.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – Hank Aaron’s rookie card from his first season with the Milwaukee Braves in 1957 is a must for any collection. Aaron went on to break Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record and finished with 755 career dingers. PSA 10 examples have sold for $25,000 but lower graded copies are still valued at $5,000-$10,000 depending on centering and condition issues. Aaron’s historic career and the fact it was his true rookie card make this a highly sought after piece for collectors.

1975 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. – While not nearly as old as the previous entries, Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie card from his first Bowman set in 1975 holds significant value. Ripken went on to break Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak at 2,632 games and was a 19-time All-Star. High grade PSA 10 copies can fetch $2,000 but well-centered examples in average condition still sell for $500-$800. Ripken’s iconic career and the fact it was his true rookie card before he was a star make this Baltimore Oriole a smart long-term investment piece.

1969 Topps Tom Seaver – The 1969 Topps Tom Seaver rookie card is among the most important pitching cards ever printed. Seaver went on to win over 300 games and claim three Cy Young Awards during his illustrious career. PSA 10 copies have sold for over $10,000 in recent years with average conditioned versions still bringing $2,000-$3,000. His status as a first-ballot Hall of Famer and one of the best right-handed hurlers ever make this a must for any collection.

1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson – While not nearly as rare as the Honus Wagner, any vintage card featuring Walter Johnson holds great value. ‘The Big Train’ was arguably the best power pitcher of the deadball era. His iconic 1909-11 T206 card in high grade can bring $15,000. Even well-worn copies in lower grades still sell for $3,000-$5,000 based on his all-time greatness alone. Finding any early 20th century card of Johnson is a great addition to any collection.

1957 Topps Sandy Koufax – Sandy Koufax’s rookie card from his early days with the Brooklyn Dodgers exemplifies one of the most dominant pitching performances in baseball history. Koufax went on to win three Cy Young Awards and two World Series titles for Los Angeles. PSA 10 copies have sold for over $10,000 but average conditioned versions still fetch $3,000-$5,000. His meteoric rise and stellar career make this a key rookie card for any collection.

There are countless other valuable baseball cards that could significantly increase the worth of a collection with top stars like Roberto Clemente, Ted Williams, Rogers Hornsby, and more. The cards highlighted here feature some of the most elite players, rarest production runs, and most visually appealing designs that are likely to retain and increase value over time for serious collectors. With patience and diligence searching card shows, shops, and auction sites, it’s possible to uncover many of these gems at fair prices to boost the long-term value and enjoyment of any baseball card collection.